Mastering CAT 2021: A Comprehensive Guide to Slot 1 VARC

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India's premier MBA entrance exam, with over 2 lakh candidates appearing each year. The exam consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).

In recent years, the VARC section of CAT has undergone significant changes, with a greater emphasis on reading comprehension and critical thinking. This has led to a steady decline in the average sectional score, highlighting the need for candidates to adopt a specialized approach to this section.

Understanding CAT 2021 Slot 1 VARC

Slot 1 of CAT 2021 will be held on November 28, 2021, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. The VARC section will comprise 24 questions, divided into three sub-sections:

• Reading Comprehension (RC): 18 questions
• Verbal Ability (VA): 6 questions

The RC passages will be longer and more complex than in previous years, with a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and academic texts. The VA questions will test candidates' grammar, vocabulary, and sentence correction skills.

Preparing for CAT 2021 Slot 1 VARC

1. Build a Strong Foundation

• Vocabulary: Start by building a strong vocabulary by reading extensively and using flashcards to memorize new words.
• Grammar: Review the basics of English grammar and practice identifying errors in sentences.

2. Practice Reading Comprehension

• Read Daily: Read a variety of texts, including newspapers, articles, and books, to improve your reading speed and comprehension.
• Analyze Passages: Identify the main idea, supporting details, and author's purpose in each passage you read.
• Answer Questions: Practice answering different types of comprehension questions, such as factual, inferential, and critical thinking.

3. Enhance Verbal Ability

• Practice Sentence Correction: Identify and correct errors in sentences, focusing on grammar, punctuation, and usage.
• Practice Fill in the Blanks: Choose the most appropriate word to fill in the blank in a sentence.
• Practice Para Jumbles: Arrange sentences in the correct order to form a coherent paragraph.

Tips and Tricks for Slot 1 VARC

• Manage Time Wisely: Allocate 60 minutes for RC and 20 minutes for VA.
• Read Actively: While reading the RC passages, highlight key points and make annotations to enhance comprehension.
• Answer with Precision: Read the questions carefully and answer only what is asked.
• Use Elimination: Eliminate obviously incorrect answer choices to increase your chances of selecting the right answer.
• Guess Strategically: If you are unsure about an answer, make an educated guess based on the context and your understanding of the passage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overthinking: Don't spend too much time on a single question. If you can't solve it quickly, move on and come back later.
• Ignoring Time: Make sure to keep a watch on the clock and adjust your pace accordingly.
• Rushing: Take your time to read the passages carefully and avoid making careless mistakes.
• Panic: Stay calm and composed throughout the exam. Don't let negative thoughts overwhelm you.

Why VARC Matters

A strong performance in VARC is crucial for success in CAT. The section tests candidates' critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and language skills, which are essential for both academic and professional success.

1. Improves Career Prospects: Many top MBA programs and companies in India and abroad place a high value on candidates with strong VARC skills.
2. Enhances Communication: Effective communication is key in the business world. VARC improves candidates' ability to write, speak, and present clearly and concisely.
3. Fosters Critical Thinking: VARC develops candidates' ability to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and make sound judgments.

Stories and Lessons Learned

1. The Importance of Reading:

A candidate who spent a year dedicatedly reading a wide range of texts scored 99.5 percentile in VARC. She attributed her success to her consistent reading habit, which helped her develop a strong vocabulary, comprehension skills, and critical thinking abilities.

2. Overcoming Test Anxiety:

Another candidate struggled with test anxiety during her first CAT attempt. She enrolled in a meditation course before her second attempt, which helped her calm her nerves and focus on the exam. As a result, she improved her VARC score by 20 percentile points.

3. The Power of Practice:

A group of candidates formed a study circle where they regularly discussed RC passages, solved VA questions, and analyzed their performance. By consistently practicing and sharing knowledge, they were able to significantly improve their VARC scores.

Conclusion

Mastering VARC in CAT 2021 Slot 1 requires a strategic approach, consistent practice, and a positive mindset. By following the tips, avoiding common mistakes, and taking inspiration from success stories, candidates can significantly improve their chances of securing a high score in this crucial section. Remember, success in VARC can open doors to exciting career opportunities and empower you with invaluable skills for life.